VI Field Archery Gains Full Ifaa Membership
The Virgin Islands Field Archery Federation (VIFAF) was granted Full Membership of the International Field Archery Association (IFAA) during the council meeting on July 24, 2026. The upgrade — achieved just 18 months after gaining Associate status — gives local archers voting representation, access to international competitions and greater opportunities for coaching and officiating development.
The Virgin Islands Field Archery Federation (VIFAF) has been granted Full Membership of the International Field Archery Association (IFAA) following a Council decision on Friday, July 24, 2026. Georges-Buxo attended the meeting virtually to witness the federation’s elevation from Associate to Full Member.
As VIFAF’s appointed delegate, President Stoby will now officially represent the Virgin Islands on the IFAA World Council. The federation previously held Associate Membership with the IFAA from January 2025 and completed an accelerated transition to Full Membership in just 18 months, a move the federation says recognises strengthened governance, expanded participation, and sustained promotion of field archery across the islands.
Founded in 1970, the IFAA is the global governing body for field archery, overseeing field, hunter, animal, and indoor archery and representing associations across six continents. Full Member status gives VIFAF voting rights within the IFAA, a stronger voice in governance and decision-making, and increased collaboration with other national associations.
For archers in the Virgin Islands, the upgrade brings tangible benefits: eligibility to represent a fully recognised member nation at IFAA-sanctioned competitions and international championships, clearer pathways to international rankings, and enhanced opportunities for coaching and officiating development.
The federation also highlighted improved prospects for knowledge sharing, forming international partnerships, and attracting support for programs that develop athletes of all ages and abilities. President Stoby called the approval an important milestone. "This is an important milestone for the Virgin Islands Field Archery Federation.
Full Membership reflects the work and commitment of our members, volunteers, coaches, and athletes over the past several years," he said, adding that the federation looks forward to creating more competitive and development opportunities for local archers. The decision also has local implications beyond sport.
With Full Membership, VIFAF is better positioned to host higher-level competitions and training events, which can draw regional competitors and bolster sports tourism. For community programmes, the recognition strengthens grant and partnership prospects that can support youth outreach, equipment procurement, and coach education across the Territory.
VIFAF thanked the IFAA Council for its confidence and acknowledged the dedication of its executive, members, coaches, officials and volunteers. The federation said it will continue to expand participation, develop athletes and officials, and strengthen the Virgin Islands' presence within the international archery community.
Primary source: VINO